There are times in life when you find yourself more at peace in solitude, rather than being surrounded by a crowd.

Maybe you’ve always been that way, or perhaps you’ve just recently noticed this shift in preference.

It doesn’t necessarily have to be a grand revelation.

Often, it’s just a quiet realization that you feel most comfortable and authentic when you’re on your own.

Here’s how to tell for certain that you’re a genuine introvert, as understood by psychology, even if you’ve always thought otherwise.

1) You value your solitude

Being alone doesn’t scare or bother you, quite the opposite.

You deeply appreciate the silence and the independence that comes with solitude.

It’s not that you’re shunning the world or people around you.

It’s just that you find solace and comfort in your own company, and that’s perfectly alright.

In fact, it’s in these quiet moments that you recharge, reflect and reconnect with your inner self.

Psychology indicates that a genuine introvert often thrives in solitude. If you can relate to this, then you’re probably an introvert.

2) Socializing drains you

Don’t get me wrong, I do enjoy meeting people, catching up with friends, and attending social events.

But after a while, it feels like my energy is being siphoned off.

I find myself longing for the comfort of my own space, to retreat and recharge.

This isn’t about being antisocial or not liking people.

It’s just that socializing, as fun as it can be, requires energy. And for me, it’s energy that I need to replenish in solitude.

If you often feel the same way, it’s another sign you might be an introvert.

3) Small talk isn’t your thing

Here’s an example from my own life. I once attended a networking event, where I was expected to mingle and make small talk.

As I listened to people discussing the weather, recent sports events and popular TV shows, I found myself struggling to maintain interest.

It wasn’t that I didn’t care about their lives or experiences, but the surface-level conversation just left me feeling unfulfilled.

I craved deeper, more meaningful conversations about passions, dreams, fears and ideas. This is a typical trait of an introvert.

If you find yourself yearning for depth and substance in discussions, rather than engaging in small talk, you might well be an introvert.

4) You’re a keen observer

In a room full of chatter and activity, I often find myself sitting back and observing.

I take note of people’s expressions, their body language, the dynamics between them.

It’s not about scrutinizing or judging, but about understanding and empathizing.

Psychologists have found that introverts tend to be more observant and aware of their surroundings.

This keen sense of observation often leads to greater empathy and understanding of others’ emotions and experiences.

If you also find yourself observing more than participating, it’s yet another sign you might be an introvert.

5) You prefer writing over talking

If you ask me to express my thoughts, I’m more likely to hand over a written note than to articulate them verbally.

There’s something about writing that allows me to gather my thoughts, reflect on them, and present them in a way that feels most authentic to me.

This preference for written communication over verbal is common among introverts, according to psychologists.

It’s not about being shy or less articulate. It’s about choosing a medium that allows us to express ourselves more fully and accurately.

If you find yourself gravitating towards writing instead of speaking, it’s another sign pointing towards introversion.

6) You have a small circle of friends

When it comes to friendships, I’ve always valued quality over quantity.

I don’t have a huge circle of friends, but the ones I do have, I hold dear.

We share a deep connection and understand and respect each other’s needs for space and solitude.

This preference for close, meaningful relationships over a wide network of acquaintances is another key characteristic of introverts identified by psychologists.

It’s not that we can’t make more friends, we just prefer to invest our time and energy into a select few.

If your social circle tends to be small but deep, you might be an introvert.

7) You think before you speak

I’m not one to blurt out the first thing that comes to my mind.

Instead, I take my time, processing my thoughts and weighing my words before I let them out into the world.

This tendency to think before speaking is a common trait among introverts, as per psychology.

It’s not about fear of saying something wrong, but more about wanting our words to accurately reflect our thoughts and feelings.

If you find yourself often taking a pause before responding in conversations, it’s another sign of being an introvert.

8) You enjoy introspection

I often find myself lost in my thoughts, reflecting on life, experiences, and my own emotions.

This act of introspection, of looking inward and examining my own thoughts and feelings, is something I truly enjoy.

Psychology tells us that introspection is a hallmark trait of introverts.

We don’t just live life, we contemplate it, analyze it, and learn from it.

If you find yourself drawn to introspective activities like journaling or daydreaming, it’s a strong sign that you are an introvert.

The final reflection

If you’ve found yourself nodding along to these signs, then it’s highly likely you’re an introvert by nature.

But remember, being an introvert isn’t a limitation, it’s simply a different way of engaging with the world.

Embrace your introverted traits and understand that they bring unique strengths to the table. Your introspection, your ability to deeply connect with others, your preference for meaningful conversations – these are all things to be celebrated.

You may occasionally find yourself in situations where you feel out of sync with the extroverted world around you. That’s okay.

Accept yourself as you are, and don’t feel the need to fit into a mould that doesn’t suit you. Instead, focus on creating environments where you can thrive.

Carl Jung, the psychologist who popularized the terms introvert and extrovert once said, “The shoe that fits one person pinches another; there is no recipe for living that suits all cases.”

Take a moment to reflect on your unique qualities, and how they shape your interactions and experiences. Use this understanding to navigate life in a way that honours your authentic self.